7 Things To Remember Before A Pre-Baby Holiday

Pregnancy is a great time to take a break – as long as you don’t spend it stressing about what to eat and how close the nearest hospital is

Whether it’s in the first half of your pregnancy when you’re most exhausted, or later when you’re off on maternity leave, a bump break is a great way to relax and appreciate where you’re at – before life with a baby really kicks off. Remember these, and you’ll be able to get the most from it.

Take Your Notes

Whether you’re going on a mini-break in the UK or jetting off to the States, make sure you pack your maternity notes, just in case anything happens while you’re away. It makes being seen by other doctors and getting treatment much easier.

Leave Enough Time

Dashing from train to aeroplane or rushing a long car journey won’t be fun. Leave extra time so you can have more stops to stretch your legs (and use the loo). Also, avoid travelling during the school holidays – you’ll be doing enough of that later on.

Avoid travelling during the school holidays – you’ll be doing enough of that later on

Check Your Insurance

Before you travel, check that your medical insurance covers pregnant women and any pregnancy complications that might take place. If not, change it.

Plan Your Trip Carefully

Although most airlines will let you travel until you’re 32 weeks pregnant, the second trimester is still the best time for a trip since your risk of miscarriage is substantially lower, your morning sickness has (hopefully) subsided and you’re not yet too big and uncomfortable for a plane or train trip.

Wear Flight Socks

If you’re flying for more than three hours, it’s a good idea to wear flight socks (available in Boots) to reduce your risk of thrombosis, or blood clots in your legs. Pregnant women are more at risk of deep vein thrombosis due to the increased pressure in the veins in your pelvis and legs.

Avoid Vaccinations

According to NHS guidelines, it’s best that you avoid having travel vaccinations during pregnancy, particularly ones that include injecting you with a tiny amount of a live virus as this could harm your baby. Talk to your GP if in doubt, as this will limit more exotic travel.

Pack Snacks

There’s nothing worse than being hungry when you’re pregnant, so make sure you leave space in your luggage for your favourite snack. Yes, you’ll be able to buy food wherever you’re going, but you might find yourself missing your pregnancy staples – also pack water to stay hydrated on the journey.

Now that you’re pregnant you might be looking forward to indulging in more of your favourite foods without worrying about fitting into your skinniest jeans. But whether you plan on making the most of eating for two or not, it’s important to stick to an exercise routine to keep you feeling fit and healthy during your pregnancy